Description_x000D_ General description_x000D_ The PLAU (plasminogen activator, urokinase) gene is mapped to human chromosome 10q22.2._x000D_ Urokinase-type plasminogen activator is also known as PLAU and uPA. The human uPA is initially synthesized as 431 amino acid precursor with an N-terminal signal peptide (20 residues). The single chain molecule is processed into a disulfide-linked two-chain molecule of different molecular weights. Two forms of the A chain exist, starting at Ser21 (the long form) and Lys156 (the short form). The long and short A chains are unique to the high and low molecular weight forms, respectively. The long A chain contains an EGF (epidermal growth factor)-like domain, responsible for binding of the PLAU receptor. The B chain corresponds to the catalytic domain. The gene encoding it is localized on human chromosome 10._x000D_ Biochem/physiol Actions_x000D_ Urokinase-type plasminogen activator is a serine protease with extremely limited substrate specificity, cleaving the sequence Cys-Pro-Gly-Arg560-Val561-Val-Gly-Gly-Cys in plasminogen to form plasmin. It is a potent marker of invasion and metastasis in a variety of human cancers associated with breast, stomach, colon, bladder, ovary, brain and endometrium. uPA (plasminogen activator, urokinase) - mediated degradation of extracellular matrix of migrating cells is essential for tissue remodeling, invasiveness and angiogenesis. uPA promotes pathogenesis of Psoriasis and basal cell carcinoma. uPA activates growth factors and metalloproteinases._x000D_ Physical form_x000D_ Lyophilized from 0.22 μm filtered solution in HEPES, NaCl and CaCl2. Generally 5-8% Mannitol or trehalose is added as a protectant before lyophilization._x000D_ Reconstitution_x000D_ Centrifuge the vial prior to opening. Reconstitute in sterile PBS, pH 7.4 to a concentration of 50 μg/mL. Do not vortex. This solution can be stored at 2-8°C for up to 1 month. For extended storage, it is recommended to store at -20°C.